Day of Dialogue will bring health to forefront

DOMINIQUE SHAW
OUTLOOK STAFF WRITER

The Rev. Franklin Rush, pastor or New Zion Primitive Baptist Church, said he knows health problems are a major issue in the African-American Community. The real problem is that people don’t like to talk about it.

“We want to make people aware,” he said. In an effort to get the word out, on Saturday, Feb. 13, Bethel AME is hosting a “Day of Dialogue on Minority Health.” “I think it’s a wonderful opportunity to develop strategies for people in the community,” said Jackie Robinson, clinical psychologist and chairperson of the Bethel AME Church commission on health.  “This is an important time to talk about job loss, family relations and the economy.”

Now in its fourth year, the event is designed to bring church leaders, community leaders and various agencies together to provide enough information to help the congregation and all others who come.

“There will be a good mix of people,” said event co-chair, Penny Ralston. As a minister, Rush said he felt he should be involved; he plans to talk to pastors statewide regarding mental health. Health packets will be given out as people enter the church.

“A lot of information will be disseminated,” said Ralston, in reference to get people help with stress. A pastor’s panel will discuss what preachers have been hearing from the members of their respective churches. The program will also target environmental stress and strain, and its effect on the body.

“Many times, we try to separate our problems, but it’s our physical, mental and spiritual health because we are one person,” Ralston said, “Times are really tough; we’re all under stress.” Attendees will have the chance to ask their questions during a one-on-one round-table segment.

Robinson plans to present an educational component. “I will talk about what stress is and how it shows up in our bodies,” she said. Robinson is also scheduled to discuss the higher rates of health problems in African Americans.  In addition to the workshops, a healthy breakfast and lunch will be served and various health stations will be set-up for testing. “It’s a good time to talk about problems and solutions,” Robinson said.

“Day of Dialogue on Minority Health IV” Saturday, Feb. 13 Bethel AME Church 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The program is open to the public.